Merlot is the most widely planted red grape variety in Bordeaux, and with Cabernet Sauvignon forms the traditional Bordeaux blend. The dominant variety in St Emilion and Pomerol wines, Merlot is also widely grown in most wine-producing regions around the world, particularly Chile, Californina, Hungary and Italy. Good Merlot is full of ripe, plummy fruit and has a softness and body which, particularly in New World examples, make it very drinkable indeed.